The principle of a simple faith and fellowship like that of Jesus and his followers one would hope is universally appealing to Christians. Therefore, let us begin with the proposition that after a history of nearly 200 years, the restoration movement in America is still a noble and worthwhile plea. Also at least in concept, the plea for returning to the simple Christianity of the New Testament is a legitimate goal. Then, let us postulate that the problem lies is not in the plea for a simple New Testament Christianity, but in the practice of it. To paraphrase Shakespeare, “the trouble lies not in our stars, but in ourselves.” This would appear to be a good place to start a dialogue on this subject. Let us start with the idea that the problem with us is me.
This writer is well aware, however, that these statements belie certain prejudices and presuppositions. While these opinions are not unique to the writer, they may not accurately reflect those of all the readers. Agreement or disagreement with these presuppositions should not preclude the readers from finding something of interest and maybe of value in this writing. This is an effort at full disclosure. It is the writers attempt to completely honest and forthright with the readers from the beginning.
In reality, while Jesus lived and practiced what we have come to know as Christianity perfectly, his followers did not, nor do those who profess him (his disciples) even to this day. Jesus selected twelve men to be his closest followers and he entrusted them with his continuing mission. That mission was to seek out new civilizations, new people and be his witnesses (present testimony on the death, and resurrection of Jesus). That he left this mission in the hands of deeply flawed individuals is beyond question. Yet, one must understand that this too is fundamental to the mission. It would seem apparent that he never intended or expected perfection in the practice of our faith. The key concept then is that of practice. This is not unlike Medical Doctors who have a license to “practice medicine,” we merely practice Christianity.
It would appear therefore, that there is a fundamental flaw in attempting the restoration of New Testament Christianity. Or at least this writer would suggest that there is a fundamental flaw. This flaw would be the assumption that some perfect pattern can be perfectly replicated by imperfect people during this or any era. An exact duplication of first century Christianity in the nineteenth, twentieth or even twenty-first century would seem to be an insurmountable if not an impossible task.
I realized after sitting down to write on this subject that it was much to long to put in one post, so I choose to divide it into several smaller post.
More to come later....
Bob